Nominations for Moral Fairground’s ethical business award program are now open

Social entrepreneurs and social enterprise represent a powerful sector of Australian businesses that are working to lead ventures that regenerate the environment, do good for people and form strong social foundations for communities to thrive. The people who work for these enterprises are consistently striving to realise a sustainable, ethical and inclusive world.

Nominations are now open for enterprises to be recognised through Moral Fairground’s 2016 Ethical Enterprise Awards. The award recognises enterprises for their innovative and ethical practices that deliver positive social and economic impact. Nominations opened on 1 July, and winners will be announced at the Awards dinner in Melbourne on 20 October.

The Ethical Enterprise Award is open to purpose–driven Australian businesses or organisations that deliver innovative work with a positive social, environmental or economic impact either locally or internationally.

Based in Sydney, Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia, an Australian enterprise dedicated to providing free treatment for Ethiopian women with devastating childbirth injuries, was dubbed the winner of the 2015 Ethical Enterprise Award.

Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia makes a difference by selling ethically sourced gifts from Africa through its shop and online store.

Cora Clough, Industry Engagement Manager at Centre for Workplace Leadership and judge of the 2015 Ethical Enterprise Award, said that Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia was a great example of the power of ethical enterprise for making genuine positive change.

“Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia employs ethical practices to source and sell all their products. Not only does this assist women in medical need but fair-trade also has a flow-on effect in the African community.”

Having sponsored these awards since their inception, Australian Ethical strongly believes in building and supporting ethical enterprises to continue their good work and ultimately improve the world we live in.

Commenting on this year’s launch, Australian Ethical Managing Director Phil Vernon said, “The Ethical Enterprise Awards are an important way to recognise leading social enterprises, and support their important work into the future.”

The winner of the Ethical Enterprise Award 2016 will receive a $10,000 grant and gain national recognition throughout the business, non-profit and social enterprise sector for their contribution to society, and their unique vision and leadership. Additionally, the Award recipient will have access to an array of networking, media and promotional opportunities, advertising and business development packages. This year, prizes include $7,500 cash for the runner-up. The third prize winner will receive $15,000 worth of professional business coaching.

Organisations can apply online for the granthere. Submissions close on Friday 24 July.